Priyanka Tiwari
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Wind-fueled wildfires in South Korea’s southern regions have resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people, including a pilot whose helicopter crashed during firefighting efforts. The blazes have destroyed more than 200 structures and forced around 27,000 people to evacuate, according to officials.
The wildfires have burned approximately 43,330 acres, making this one of the most damaging fire events in the country’s history. Among the properties destroyed were homes, factories, vehicles, and parts of an ancient Buddhist temple.
Historic Temple and Cultural Heritage Damaged
The Gounsa Temple in Uiseong, originally built in the 7th century, suffered extensive damage. Nearly half of its more than 30 structures were destroyed, including two state-designated treasures—a pavilion from 1668 and a commemorative structure from 1904. A stone Buddha statue from the 8th century was safely evacuated.
Firefighting Efforts Face Challenges
South Korea’s acting President Han Duck-soo called the wildfires among the worst in the nation’s history. Over 4,650 personnel, including firefighters and soldiers, and about 130 helicopters are engaged in battling the flames. Strong winds and dry conditions have made suppression efforts more difficult, particularly during nighttime.
A small amount of rainfall is expected, which may assist efforts. However, the government remains on high alert.
Major Affected Areas and Response Measures
Fires have heavily impacted cities and counties in southeastern South Korea, including Andong, Uiseong, Sancheong, and Ulsan. The Korea Forest Service raised the national wildfire warning to its highest "serious" level, enforcing stricter safety and response protocols.
In Cheongsong, 500 inmates were relocated from a detention center as a precaution, though no damages were reported.
Casualties and Suspected Causes
Among the deceased are four firefighters and government officials who were trapped in Sancheong. An additional 26 people have sustained various injuries.
Officials suspect that human activities—such as grass burning near tombs or sparks from welding—may have caused several of the fires.
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